Family system in islam

Family System

In Islam

ByDr. Zeenat Kauther

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#sIslam on Sexuality, Reproduction

andFamily System

Paper Presented to theInternational Conference of NGOs

Seoul, Korea10-16 October 1999

ByDr. Zeenath Kausar

World Assembly ofMrnlim youth"(wAtvfY)

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

-Islam on Sexuality) Reproductionand

Family System

Paper Presented to theInternational Conference ofNGOs

Seoul) Korea10-16 October 1999


World Assembly ofMuslim Youth,(WAMY)

Riyadh) Saudi Arabia

-Islam on Sexuality) Reproductionand

Family System

Paper Presented to theInternational Conference ofNGOs

Seoul) Korea10-16 October 1999


World Assembly ofMuslim Youth,(WAMY)

Riyadh) Saudi Arabia

PREFACE

As the tide of the paper sugests, Dr. Zeenath Kausar hasattemgted to present the Islamic perspective on se<uality,reproduction and family system.

Family values play an imporant rore from the Islamicpoint of view. Islam seeks to create durable bases forrelationship within the familr, which is the building blockgf

" society. when each of these blocks is nrmlyilaced,

the social struch*e of the society rests on a strongfoundation. wfhere the cohesive bond gets diluted, th;society begins to nrmble

The westem society presents a glaringexampleof thisphenomenon. The grovdng tt.t*b.r or rittgt.-parentfamilies in the wake of

""*p*t divorces has"created a

sihration in which uninhibited ro has culminated in theoutbreak of ArDs and other sexually transmitted diseases.

An rmporant factor for the breakdown of marriages inthe west is the fact that marial relations in sTestemsocieties are govemed by material considerations, such aswealth' _ beauty or fame. These are ephemeral valuesdoomed to self-erosion in the course of time. when thathappens, the fragile relationship gets swerved and themarriage ends in divorce

By contrasg marital ues in the Muslim society are onfirmer ground. Families seeking afriances also look forpartners qdth a strong moral character, among otherthirp. Thus if the married life of a couple becomis a bitbumpy, they still pull on for the sake oittt.ir children towhom

- th.y owe z religious obtigation to bring upproperly.

PREFACE

As the title of the paper suggests, Dr. Zeenath Kausar hasattempted to present the Islamic perspective on sexuality,reproduction and family system.

Family values play an important role from the Islamicpoint of view. Islam seeks to create durable bases forrelationship within the family, which is the building blockof a society. When each of these blocks is firmly placed,the social structure of the society rests on a strongfoundation. Where the cohesive bond gets diluted, thesociety begins to tumble.

The Western society presents a glaring example of thisphenomenon. The growing number of single-parentfamilies in the wake of rampant divorces has created asituation in which uninhibited sex has culminated in theoutbreak of AIDs and other sexually transmitted diseases.

An important factor for the breakdown of marriages inthe West is the fact that marital relations in Westernsocieties are governed by material considerations, such aswealth, beauty or fame. These are ephemeral valuesdoomed to self-erosion in the course of time. When thathappens, the fragile relationship gets swerved and themarriage ends in divorce.

By contrast, marital ties in the Muslim society are onFurner ground. Families seeking alliances also look forpartners with a strong moral character, among otherthings. Thus if the married life ofa couple becomes a bitbumpy, they still pull on for th~ sake of their children towhom they owe a religious obligation to bring upproperly.

PREFACE

As the title of the paper suggests, Dr. Zeenath Kausar hasattempted to present the Islamic perspective on sexuality,reproduction and family system.

Family values play an important role from the Islamicpoint of view. Islam seeks to create durable bases forrelationship within the family, which is the building blockof a society. When each of these blocks is firmly placed,the social structure of the society rests on a strongfoundation. Where the cohesive bond gets diluted, thesociety begins to tumble.

The Western society presents a glaring example of thisphenomenon. The growing number of single-parentfamilies in the wake of rampant divorces has created asituation in which uninhibited sex has culminated in theoutbreak of AIDs and other sexually transmitted diseases.

An important factor for the breakdown of marriages inthe West is the fact that marital relations in Westernsocieties are governed by material considerations, such aswealth, beauty or fame. These are ephemeral valuesdoomed to self-erosion in the course of time. When thathappens, the fragile relationship gets swerved and themarriage ends in divorce.

By contrast, marital ties in the Muslim society are onFurner ground. Families seeking alliances also look forpartners with a strong moral character, among otherthings. Thus if the married life ofa couple becomes a bitbumpy, they still pull on for th~ sake of their children towhom they owe a religious obligation to bring upproperly.

I-et me conclude with these words of wisdom from CdiphOmar. Once a man sought his advice on divorcing his wife.When Cdiph Omar asked him for the reason, the manreplied: "I'm no more in love with her." Whereupon,Caliph Omar retorted: "Are families built upon love alone?

\X/hat about inter-family relationship and the shared lifewith their children?"

Dr. Maneh FI. Al-JohaniSecretary GeneralWorld Assembly of Muslim Youth CX/AlvfY)Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Let me conclude with these words ofwisdom from CaliphOmar. Once a man sought his advice on divorcing his wife.When Caliph Omar asked him for the reason, the manreplied: "I'm no more in love with her." Whereupon,Caliph Omar retorted: "Are families built upon love alone?What about inter-family relationship and the shared lifewith their children?"

Dr. Maneh H. Al-JohaniSecretary GeneralWorld Assembly of Muslim Youth (WAMY)Ftiyadh,Saudi~bi~

Let me conclude with these words ofwisdom from CaliphOmar. Once a man sought his advice on divorcing his wife.When Caliph Omar asked him for the reason, the manreplied: "I'm no more in love with her." Whereupon,Caliph Omar retorted: "Are families built upon love alone?What about inter-family relationship and the shared lifewith their children?"

Dr. Maneh H. Al-JohaniSecretary GeneralWorld Assembly of Muslim Youth (WAMY)Ftiyadh,Saudi~bi~

ISLAM ON SEXUALITY,REPRODUCTION AND FAMILY

SYSTEM

Introduction:

1. Life an Integrated Whole:

Islam, which implies willing and complete submission to Allah(tn"tl is a complete way of life embracing all aspects of lifeincluding sexual, reproductive, marital and familial. It underlinestwo important points:Firstly, Islam perceives life as an integrated whole and for thisreason sexuality and reproduction are parts of the whole Islamicsystem of life, not outside it.secondly, Islam which is a Divinely ordained system of life,possesses injunctions and regulations in its texts - the eur'an andthe Prophetic traditions for the regulation of sexuality,reproduction and all that are related to these.

Islamlc philosophy of Tawhid integrates all aspects of lifeTawhid implies unity of God, unity of the prophets, unity of life,unity of mankind, unity of the purpose of creation, unity oiknowledge, etc. The fundamental beliefs -i) That there is no god but Allah (swt) and the prophet Mohammad(pbuh) is the last messenger of Allah (surt) for the whole mankind;ii) That man's life in this rvorrd is temporary and he/she has tofollow Allah's ordained way of rife (Isllm) in all aspects to besuccessful here and in Hereafter and;iii) That with Allah rests all the final judgements of rewards andpunishments in the akhirah (life, hereaftei; are all based on theseunity, Tawhid. Hence, questions on'sexuality' and'reproduction,are also anchored on the Tawhidic paradigm.


SYSTEM

Introduction:


Islam, which implies willing and complete submission to Allah(swt) is a complete way of life embracing all aspects of lifeincluding sexual, reproductive, marital and familial. It underlinestwo important points:Firstly, Islam perceives life as an integrated whole and for thisreason sexuality and reproduction are parts of the whole Islamicsystem of life, not outside it.Secondly, Islam which is a Divinely ordained system of life,possesses injunctions and regulations in its texts - the Qur'an andthe Prophetic traditions for the regulation of sexuality,reproduction and all that are related to these.

Islamic philosophy of Tawhid integrates all aspects of life.Tawhid implies unity of God, unity of the prophets, unity of life,unity of mankind, unity of the purpose of creation, un,ity ofknowledge, etc. The fundamental beliefs -i) That there is no god but Allah (swt) and the Prophet Mohammad(pbuh) is the last messenger of Allah (swt) for the whole mankind;ii) That man's life in this world is temporary and he/she has tofollow Allah's ordained way of life (Islam) in all aspects to besuccessful here and in Hereafter and~

iii) That with Allah rests all the final judgements of rewards andpunishments in the akhirah (life, hereafter) are all based on theseUnity, Tawhid. Hence, questions on 'sexuality' and 'reproduction'are also anchored on the Tawhidic paradigm.


SYSTEM

Introduction:


Islam, which implies willing and complete submission to Allah(swt) is a complete way of life embracing all aspects of lifeincluding sexual, reproductive, marital and familial. It underlinestwo important points:Firstly, Islam perceives life as an integrated whole and for thisreason sexuality and reproduction are parts of the whole Islamicsystem of life, not outside it.Secondly, Islam which is a Divinely ordained system of life,possesses injunctions and regulations in its texts - the Qur'an andthe Prophetic traditions for the regulation of sexuality,reproduction and all that are related to these.

Islamic philosophy of Tawhid integrates all aspects of life.Tawhid implies unity of God, unity of the prophets, unity of life,unity of mankind, unity of the purpose of creation, un,ity ofknowledge, etc. The fundamental beliefs -i) That there is no god but Allah (swt) and the Prophet Mohammad(pbuh) is the last messenger of Allah (swt) for the whole mankind;ii) That man's life in this world is temporary and he/she has tofollow Allah's ordained way of life (Islam) in all aspects to besuccessful here and in Hereafter and~

iii) That with Allah rests all the final judgements of rewards andpunishments in the akhirah (life, hereafter) are all based on theseUnity, Tawhid. Hence, questions on 'sexuality' and 'reproduction'are also anchored on the Tawhidic paradigm.

II. VicegerencY - PurPose of Life:

The very raison d'etre of man's creation according to the Qur'an

is the peribrmance of the vicegerency of Allah (swt). The Qur'an

says:

Behold Thy Lord said to the angels:I will create a vicegerent on earth.

Hence, any thought and activity of man in Islam, be that sexual or

reproductiue, rhould be ultimately related to this purpose of life

vicegerency of Allah (swt)

Sexualify and ReProduction:

With this brief background of Islamic worldview, it is easier now

to look into the Islamic texts on sexuality and reproduction.

Sexuality in Islam is not trivialized as man's animalistic function

to be tackled by his own whim and fancy. Sexuality is perceived

as one of the essential parts of man's life to be regulated and

disciplined through the proper guidance.

A man and a woman in Islam can enter into sexual relationship

only after marriage, which is reckoned as a 'sign' of Allah (swt)

and the ways of the prophets', The Qur'an says:And among His Signs is this that He created spouses for you from

yourselves, that ye may dwell in tranquility with them.We indeed sent messengers before you (O Mohammad) and We

assigned them wives and children.

It implies that in Islam, the very basis of the marital relationship

between husband and wife through which they can enter intosexual relationship is 'love'. Furthermore, Allah (swt) implants

II. Vicegerency - Purpose of Life:

The very raison d'etre of man's creation according to the Qur'anis the perfonnance of the vicegerency of Allah (swt). The Qur1ansays:


Hence, any thought and activity of man in Islam, be that sexual orreproductive, should be ultimately related to this purpose of lifevicegerency of Allah (swt).

Sexuality and Reproduction:

With this brief background ofIslamic worldview, it is easier nowto look into the Islamic texts on sexuality and reproduction.

Sexuality in Islam is not trivialized as man's animalistic functionto be tackled by his own whim and fancy. Sexuality is perceivedas one of the essential parts of man's life to be regulated anddisciplined through the proper guidance.

A man and a woman in Islam can enter into sexual relationshiponly after marriage, which is reckoned as a 'sign' of Allah (swt)and the ways of the prophets', The Qur1an says:And among His Signs is this that He created spouses for you fromyourselves, that ye may dwell in tranquility with them.We indeed sent messengers before you (0 Mohammad) and Weassigned them wives and children.

It implies that in Islam, the very basis of the marital relationshipbetween husband and wife through which they can enter intosexual relationship is 'love'. Furthermore, Allah (swt) implants

2

II. Vicegerency - Purpose of Life:

The very raison d'etre of man's creation according to the Qur'anis the perfonnance of the vicegerency of Allah (swt). The Qur1ansays:


Hence, any thought and activity of man in Islam, be that sexual orreproductive, should be ultimately related to this purpose of lifevicegerency of Allah (swt).

Sexuality and Reproduction:

With this brief background ofIslamic worldview, it is easier nowto look into the Islamic texts on sexuality and reproduction.

Sexuality in Islam is not trivialized as man's animalistic functionto be tackled by his own whim and fancy. Sexuality is perceivedas one of the essential parts of man's life to be regulated anddisciplined through the proper guidance.

A man and a woman in Islam can enter into sexual relationshiponly after marriage, which is reckoned as a 'sign' of Allah (swt)and the ways of the prophets', The Qur1an says:And among His Signs is this that He created spouses for you fromyourselves, that ye may dwell in tranquility with them.We indeed sent messengers before you (0 Mohammad) and Weassigned them wives and children.

It implies that in Islam, the very basis of the marital relationshipbetween husband and wife through which they can enter intosexual relationship is 'love'. Furthermore, Allah (swt) implants

2

this 'love' in husband and wife towards each other so that they maylive in peace and harmony. such an Islamic attitude towardssexuality goes entirely against the mere lusty cravings inman/woman and its satisfaction through legitimate or illegitimateways. In Islam, it is the'love' and the strong covenant (nikah) thatunite man and woman not 'force' or temporary arrangementsoutside marriage or cohabitation. For this reason, all typei of pre-marital and extra marital relationships, fornication, illitit

"u*alityare completely condemned is Islam and man is ordained nor ro gonearer to adultery The Qur'an says:

Nor come nigh to adulteryFor it is a shameful (deed)And an evil, opening the road(to other evils).

Islam thus makes a distinction between sexuality that isconstrained and disciprined through maritar relationship andsexuality, which transgresses morarity and spirituality and turnsanimalism. Islam does not overlook the sexuar drive in man butinstitutionalize it through marriage ro protect man fromimmorality. The prophet Mohammad (pbuh) said:o young men! Those among you who can support a wife shouldmarry for it restrains *y*r

-ftor casting t.uir grunces) andpreserves one from immorality.

Islam is quite sensitive in a[ issues pertaining to marriage andsexuality. As sexuarity outside maniage is iilegTtim"i., *u.riug*without the proper consent is declared invar-id. The rrophetMohammad (pbuh) said:

'A widow shail not be married until she be consulted, nor shail avirgin be' married until her consent be asked; and that a womanrip^e in years shail have her consenf asked i" *--"g" and if sherefuses, she shall not be married by force.,

this 'love' in husband and wife towards each other so that they maylive in peace and harmony. Such an Islamic attitude towardssexuality goes entirely against the mere lusty cravings inman/woman and its satisfaction through legitimate or illegitimateways. In Islam, it is the 'love' and the strong covenant (nikah) thatunite man and woman not 'force' or temporary arrangementsoutside marriage or cohabitation. For this reason, all types of premarital and extra marital relationships, fornication, illicit carnalityare completely condemned is Islam and man is ordained not to gonearer to adultery. The Qur'an says:


Islam thus makes a distinction between sexuality that isconstrained and disciplined through marital relationship andsexuality, which transgresses morality and spirituality and turnsanimalism. Islam does not overlook the sexual drive in man butinstitutionalize it through marriage to protect man fromimmorality. The Prophet Mohammad (pbuh) said:o young men! Those among you who can support a wife shouldmarry for it restrains eyes from casting (evil glances) andpreserves one from immorality.

Islam is quite sensitive in all issues pertaining to marriage andsexuality. As sexuality outside marriage is illegitimate, marriagewithout the proper consent is declared invalid. The ProphetMohammad (pbuh) said:

'A widow shall not be married until she be consulted, nor shall avirgin be, married until her consent be asked; and that a womanripe in years shall have her consent asked in marriage and if sherefuses, she shall not be married by force.'

this 'love' in husband and wife towards each other so that they maylive in peace and harmony. Such an Islamic attitude towardssexuality goes entirely against the mere lusty cravings inman/woman and its satisfaction through legitimate or illegitimateways. In Islam, it is the 'love' and the strong covenant (nikah) thatunite man and woman not 'force' or temporary arrangementsoutside marriage or cohabitation. For this reason, all types of premarital and extra marital relationships, fornication, illicit carnalityare completely condemned is Islam and man is ordained not to gonearer to adultery. The Qur'an says:


Islam thus makes a distinction between sexuality that isconstrained and disciplined through marital relationship andsexuality, which transgresses morality and spirituality and turnsanimalism. Islam does not overlook the sexual drive in man butinstitutionalize it through marriage to protect man fromimmorality. The Prophet Mohammad (pbuh) said:o young men! Those among you who can support a wife shouldmarry for it restrains eyes from casting (evil glances) andpreserves one from immorality.

Islam is quite sensitive in all issues pertaining to marriage andsexuality. As sexuality outside marriage is illegitimate, marriagewithout the proper consent is declared invalid. The ProphetMohammad (pbuh) said:

'A widow shall not be married until she be consulted, nor shall avirgin be, married until her consent be asked; and that a womanripe in years shall have her consent asked in marriage and if sherefuses, she shall not be married by force.'

Therefore, marriage in Islam, unlike radical feminism is neither an

imprisonment for woman that is thrust or forced upon her as a

punishment nor enslavement that makes her subservient to man.

Marriage is a covenant of faith and consent and a bond of love and

concern.

Marital relationship in Islam is neither patnarchal and political nor

economic and sexual for its own sake as against the commonperception of gender feminists, but moral and spiritual' In fact,husband and wife complement each other in Islam since husbandprovides economic and sexual security to his wife and his childrenand his wife guards her chastity and her husband's possessions asher moral obligation The Qur'an says:

Men are the protectorsAnd maintainers of women, because GodHas given the ones more (strength)Than the other, and becauseThey support themFrom their meansTherefore the righteous womenAre devoutly obedient and guardIn (the husband's) absenceWhat God would have them guard.

Thus, husband and wife in Islam complement each other and donot compete for domination and supremacy. They are friends andco-partners in their co-venture-vicegerency of Allah(swt). Bothenjoy rights and duties towards each other and both haveobligations to Allah (swt). This is very clearly stated in theQur'anic verse which proclaims equality in the very creation ofman and womaq pointing out their creation from a single soul:

O mankind, be conscious of your duty to your Lord, Who createdyou from a single soul, created of like nature, her mate, and fromthe two created and spread many men and women; and be mindful

Therefore, marriage in Islam, unlike radical feminism is neither animprisonment for woman that is thrust or forced upon her as apunishment nor enslavement that makes her subservient to man.Marriage is a covenant of faith and consent and a bond of love andconcern.

Marital relationship in Islam is neither patriarchal and political noreconomic and sexual for its own sake as against the commonperception of gender feminists, but moral and spiritual. In fact,husband and wife complement each other in Islam since husbandprovides economic and sexual security to his wife and his childrenand his wife guards her chastity and her husband's possessions asher moral obligation. The Qur'an says:


Thus, husband and wife in Islam complement each other and donot compete for domination and supremacy. They are friends andco-partners in their co-venture-vicegerency of Allah (8wt). Bothenjoy rights and duties towards each other and both haveobligations to Allah (swt). This is very clearly stated in theQur'anic verse which proclaims equality in the very creation qfman and woman, pointing out their creation from a single soul:

o mankind, be conscious of your duty to your Lord, Who createdyou from a single soul, created of like nature, her mate, and fromthe two created and spread many men and women~ and be mindful

4

Therefore, marriage in Islam, unlike radical feminism is neither animprisonment for woman that is thrust or forced upon her as apunishment nor enslavement that makes her subservient to man.Marriage is a covenant of faith and consent and a bond of love andconcern.

Marital relationship in Islam is neither patriarchal and political noreconomic and sexual for its own sake as against the commonperception of gender feminists, but moral and spiritual. In fact,husband and wife complement each other in Islam since husbandprovides economic and sexual security to his wife and his childrenand his wife guards her chastity and her husband's possessions asher moral obligation. The Qur'an says:


Thus, husband and wife in Islam complement each other and donot compete for domination and supremacy. They are friends andco-partners in their co-venture-vicegerency of Allah (8wt). Bothenjoy rights and duties towards each other and both haveobligations to Allah (swt). This is very clearly stated in theQur'anic verse which proclaims equality in the very creation qfman and woman, pointing out their creation from a single soul:

o mankind, be conscious of your duty to your Lord, Who createdyou from a single soul, created of like nature, her mate, and fromthe two created and spread many men and women~ and be mindful

4

of -your duty to God by whose name you appear to one anotherand to (the ties of) womb. Verily God witch.jouer you.

Even if the sexual satisfaction is performed by man and womanwhile being mindful of its etiqurtti ur ordained in the eur,an andsunnah, it is reckoned as tbadnh and sadaqah (charity), TheProphet Mohammad (pbuh) said.

Did Allah not make for you that from which you can give sadaqdlverily, every time you say suhhana Alrah, ihere is Jsadaqua-andfor every time you say Allahu Akbar there is a sa*qa;-Every time you say Laa iraha iil Ailah, thereis aiadaqaand forlurry time you say Alhamdulillah, there is a sadaqa;

t

Every act of enjoining. what is right there is sacraqaand in everyact of forbidding evil there is i sadaqa, and in fo.r, sexualrelations also there is a sadaqa.

Thereupon the companions asked: o Messenger of Alrah! Is therea reward for one of us when he satisfies his sexuar desire?

Thg.lpptet replied: Don't you see, had hesatisfied itwiththeforbidden would there not haue 6een a sin upon him? Thecompanions said: "yes".

r$ froghet (pbuh) said: In the same way, when he satisfies itwith the lawful, there is for him in that a reward.

Tlrus, sexuality is never perceived by Isram as a mere carnar desireof man to be fulfilled in any animalistic *uy.r tr* ft"ur*r. eutman in Islam is ordained to folrow certain.tiq*tt. in his se*uarrelationship so that he shourd remember Allatr trortl euen uerorethis act and do not fall a prey to the satanic;;ill ihi, can beeasily gleaned tkough a careful reading of iew prophetictraditions, either practiced or spoken by him Jn these matters.

of your duty to God by Whose name you appeal to one anotherand to (the ties ot) womb. Verily God watches over you.

Even if the sexual satisfaction is perfonned by man and womanwhile being mindful of its etiquette as ordained in the Qur'an andSunnah, it is reckoned as ibadah and sadaqah (charity). TheProphet Mohammad (pbuh) said:

Did Allah not make for you that from which you can give sadaqa?Verily, every time you say Subhana Allah, there is a sadaqua_andfor every time you say Allahu Akbar there is a sadaqa;Every time you say Laa ilaha ill Allah, there is a sadaqa and forevery time you say Alhamduli/lah, there is a sadaqa;Every act of enjoining what is right there is sadaqa and in everyact of forbidding evil there is a sadaqa. and in your sexualrelations also there is a sadaqa.

Thereupon the companions asked: 0 Messenger of Allah! Is therea reward for one ofus when he satisfies his sexual desire?

The Prophet replied: Don't you see, had he satisfied it with theforbidden would there not have been a sin upon him? Thecompanions said: "yes".

The Prophet (pbuh) said: In the same way, when he satisfies itwith the lawful, there is for him in that a reward.

Thus, sexuality is never perceived by Islam as a mere carnal desireof man to be fulfilled in any animalistic way as he pleases. Butman in Islam is ordained to follow certain etiquette in his sexualrelationship so that he should remember Allah (swt) even beforethis act and do not fall a prey to the Satanic trap. This can beeasily gleaned through a careful reading of few Prophetictraditions, either practiced or spoken by him on these matters.

5

of your duty to God by Whose name you appeal to one anotherand to (the ties ot) womb. Verily God watches over you.

Even if the sexual satisfaction is perfonned by man and womanwhile being mindful of its etiquette as ordained in the Qur'an andSunnah, it is reckoned as ibadah and sadaqah (charity). TheProphet Mohammad (pbuh) said:

Did Allah not make for you that from which you can give sadaqa?Verily, every time you say Subhana Allah, there is a sadaqua_andfor every time you say Allahu Akbar there is a sadaqa;Every time you say Laa ilaha ill Allah, there is a sadaqa and forevery time you say Alhamduli/lah, there is a sadaqa;Every act of enjoining what is right there is sadaqa and in everyact of forbidding evil there is a sadaqa. and in your sexualrelations also there is a sadaqa.

Thereupon the companions asked: 0 Messenger of Allah! Is therea reward for one ofus when he satisfies his sexual desire?

The Prophet replied: Don't you see, had he satisfied it with theforbidden would there not have been a sin upon him? Thecompanions said: "yes".

The Prophet (pbuh) said: In the same way, when he satisfies itwith the lawful, there is for him in that a reward.

Thus, sexuality is never perceived by Islam as a mere carnal desireof man to be fulfilled in any animalistic way as he pleases. Butman in Islam is ordained to follow certain etiquette in his sexualrelationship so that he should remember Allah (swt) even beforethis act and do not fall a prey to the Satanic trap. This can beeasily gleaned through a careful reading of few Prophetictraditions, either practiced or spoken by him on these matters.

5

It is exhorted that the husband should place his hand on theforelock of her wife at the time of consummating the marriage andpray for Allah's blessings. The Prophet Mohammad (pbuh) said:

When any of you marries a woman he should hold her forelochmention Allah most high, and pray for His blessings saying: OAllah, I ask You for the good in her and the good with which Youhave created her; and I seek refuge in You from the evil in her andthe evil with which You have created her.

Furthermore, according to some other traditions, it is desirable ifthe husband presents to his wife something to drink to showkindness to her and to offer prayer together to remain closely everafter for the good and seek refuge in Allah (s.w.t) from the evil. Itis also evidenced from several traditions that it is commendable tomake 'wudhu' (ablution) after sex before sleep but obligatory totake bath after sex before or after sleep whenever possible.

It is quite obvious from the above discussion that senrality inIslam is neither perceived as an objective of life to be totallyimmersed in it with no other moral and spiritual considerations nora beastly act to be fulfilled throu,gh any way and mean for its ownsake. Islam disciplines sexual desire of man and also expects fromhim that he should remember Allah (swt) even while joining hiswife for sex and even pray to Allah (sw) to protect his child fromevil, if he is granted a child after the sex. It is clear from thefollowing prayer and the Prophetic tradition:

In the name of Allah, O Allah! Keep us away from the devil, andkeep the devil away from that which You may grant us(offspring).

The Prophet Mohammad (pbuh) said:

After that, if Allah decrees that they will have a child, the devilwill never be able to harm that child.


When any of you marries a woman he should hold her forelock,mention Allah most high, and pray for His blessings saying: 0Allah, I ask You for the good in her and the good with which Youhave created her; and I seek refuge in You from the evil in her andthe evil with which You have created her.


It is quite obvious from the above discussion that sexuality inIslam is neither perceived as an objective of life to be totallyimmersed in it with no other moral and spiritual considerations nora beastly act to be fulfilled throu,~ any way and mean for its ownsake. Islam disciplines sexual desire of man and also expects fromhim that he should remember Allah (swt) even while joining hiswife for sex and even pray to Allah (swt) to protect his child fromevil, if he is granted a child after the sex. It is clear from thefollowing prayer and the Prophetic tradition:

In the name of Allah, 0 Allah! Keep us away from the devil, andkeep the devil away from that which You may grant us(offspring).



6


When any of you marries a woman he should hold her forelock,mention Allah most high, and pray for His blessings saying: 0Allah, I ask You for the good in her and the good with which Youhave created her; and I seek refuge in You from the evil in her andthe evil with which You have created her.


It is quite obvious from the above discussion that sexuality inIslam is neither perceived as an objective of life to be totallyimmersed in it with no other moral and spiritual considerations nora beastly act to be fulfilled throu,~ any way and mean for its ownsake. Islam disciplines sexual desire of man and also expects fromhim that he should remember Allah (swt) even while joining hiswife for sex and even pray to Allah (swt) to protect his child fromevil, if he is granted a child after the sex. It is clear from thefollowing prayer and the Prophetic tradition:

In the name of Allah, 0 Allah! Keep us away from the devil, andkeep the devil away from that which You may grant us(offspring).



6

It also implies that Islam not only enjoins man to remember Allah(swt) before his sexual relationship but also makes him consciousof his responsibility towards his prospective chird to protect himfrom the cunning Satan.

Family: Parents Obligations Towards Children

sexuality, reproduction and children's responsibility areinterconnected in Islam through an institution, family. Family isconsidered as the frrst school of children where they are not onlynurtured but also taught basic morals and etiquette so that thechildren can appreciate Islamic ethos and values. A stabre familywill give rise to a stable society and a stable civilization. All thisrequires that both parents and children should be mindful of theirobligations towards each other along with their rights so that theymay love and respect each other. Islam enjoins its adherents tolove children and to be mindful of their responsibilities towardsthem from the very beginning of their inception and even earlier toit. The Qur'an says:

And be mindful of your duty to God in whose name you appealto one another and to the ties of the womb.

Jhus, Islam emphasizes that parents should realizethat the properdevelopment of the child begins

'from the mother's womb itself.

FI:l* the parents should be concerned about their prospectivechild from the very beginning.

It has been scientifically proved that a pregnant woman shouldabstain from alcoholic drinks and narcotics and avoid tensions. Ifshe fails to consider alr these precautionary measures, anycomplication in her own health andthat of the

"iito in the wom6

can hardly be prevent:d ft is also pointed out that the relationshipbetween the prospective moth*r

"nd the prospective father should

not be conflict-ridden because it advers*ty uiT*rt, the mental and

It also implies that Islam not only enjoins man to remember Allah(swt) before his sexual relationship but also makes him consciousof his responsibility towards his prospective child to protect himfrom the cunning Satan.


Sexuality, reproduction and children's responsibility areinterconnected in Islam through an institution, family. Family isconsidered as the first school of children where they are not onlynurtured but also taught basic morals and etiquette so that thechildren can appreciate Islamic ethos and values. A stable familywill give rise to a stable society and a stable civilization. All thisrequires that both parents and children should be mindful of theirobligations towards each other along with their rights so that theymay love and respect each other. Islam enjoins its adherents tolove children and to be mindful oftheir responsibilities towardsthem from the very beginning of their inception and even earlier toit. The Qur'an says:


Thus, Islam emphasizes that parents should realize that the properdevelopment of the child begins 'from the mother's womb itselfHence the parents should be concerned about their prospectivechild from the very beginning.

It has been scientifically proved that a pregnant woman shouldabstain from alcoholic drinks and narcotics and avoid tensions. Ifshe fails to consider all these precautionary measures, anycomplication in her own health and that of the child in the wombcan hardly be prevented. It is also pointed out that the relationshipbetween the prospective mother and the prospective father shouldnot be conflict-ridden because it adversely affects the mental and

7

It also implies that Islam not only enjoins man to remember Allah(swt) before his sexual relationship but also makes him consciousof his responsibility towards his prospective child to protect himfrom the cunning Satan.


Sexuality, reproduction and children's responsibility areinterconnected in Islam through an institution, family. Family isconsidered as the first school of children where they are not onlynurtured but also taught basic morals and etiquette so that thechildren can appreciate Islamic ethos and values. A stable familywill give rise to a stable society and a stable civilization. All thisrequires that both parents and children should be mindful of theirobligations towards each other along with their rights so that theymay love and respect each other. Islam enjoins its adherents tolove children and to be mindful oftheir responsibilities towardsthem from the very beginning of their inception and even earlier toit. The Qur'an says:


Thus, Islam emphasizes that parents should realize that the properdevelopment of the child begins 'from the mother's womb itselfHence the parents should be concerned about their prospectivechild from the very beginning.

It has been scientifically proved that a pregnant woman shouldabstain from alcoholic drinks and narcotics and avoid tensions. Ifshe fails to consider all these precautionary measures, anycomplication in her own health and that of the child in the wombcan hardly be prevented. It is also pointed out that the relationshipbetween the prospective mother and the prospective father shouldnot be conflict-ridden because it adversely affects the mental and

7

physical heatth of the prospective mother and eventually the

prospective child. Islam through the above quoted verse

empiratically makes it clear that parents should be mindful of their

dutles towards their children from the very inception'

Islam commands its believers not only to take care of the physical

upbringing of their children but also their educational, moral and

spiritual development. The Qur'an says:

o you who believe! strive to protect yourselves and your wives

and children from the fire.

obviously, the best way of protecting children frol lhe fire is by

providini adequate education and proper training' .More than the

wealth and thi material property, children require best education

for their real success heie ind in the Hereafter. The Prophet

Mohammad (Pbuh) said:

Of all that a father can give to his children the best is their good

education and training-

In the contemporary age, where Muslim Ummah is facing

multitudes of intellectual challenges, the above Prophetic tradition

;."dr gleater focus. Unless children are mentally well fed with

proper"education and skills, they become easily susceptible to

alien culture and lifestyles. Today's children are tomorrow's

future. The strong foundation of the future prospects of Islamic

culture and civilization depends on strong educational foundation

of the children. It deems necessary for them to be well acquainted

of the dominant ideologies, as well as, Islam as the comprehensive

system of life so that they should be the role models in the future

to take care of the Ummah's responsibility vis-a-vis mankind' The

Qu/an teaches its adherents to pray to Allah (sovt) for their

children with these aspirations-'

physical health of the prospective mother and eventually the


emphatically makes it clear that parents should be mindful of their

duties towards their children from the very inception.




o you who believe! Strive to protect yourselves and your wives


Obviously, the best way of protecting children from the fire is by

providing adequate education and proper training. More than the

wealth and the material property, children require best education

for their real success here and in the Hereafter. The Prophet

Mohammad (pbuh) said:


education and training.



needs greater focus. Unless children are mentally well fed with

proper education and skills, they become easily susceptible to







to take care of the Ummah's responsibility vis-a-vis mankind. The

Qur'an teaches its adherents to pray to Allah (swt) for their

children with these aspirations-.

8

physical health of the prospective mother and eventually the


emphatically makes it clear that parents should be mindful of their

duties towards their children from the very inception.




o you who believe! Strive to protect yourselves and your wives


Obviously, the best way of protecting children from the fire is by

providing adequate education and proper training. More than the

wealth and the material property, children require best education

for their real success here and in the Hereafter. The Prophet

Mohammad (pbuh) said:


education and training.



needs greater focus. Unless children are mentally well fed with

proper education and skills, they become easily susceptible to







to take care of the Ummah's responsibility vis-a-vis mankind. The

Qur'an teaches its adherents to pray to Allah (swt) for their

children with these aspirations-.

8

My Lord make me keep prayer and (also) let my offspring (do so)Our Lord accept my appeal! Our Lord, forgive my parents andme.

our Lordl Grant us in our spouses and our offspring the comfortof our eyes and make us a model for the needful.

It also implies that Islam completely rejects the perception ofthose who look to women and children as burden or as anoppressed class. In fact, Islam inspires men to look at their wivesand children as the comforters of their eyes, as their source ofjoy,peace and solace and not a suppressed and oppressed class to bedominated and over-powered. Man's domination and suppressionof woman and children go against the very spirit of Islam, whichasserts that 'command is only for Allah', not for man. The timewhen a child is born, the Islamic clarion calr that 'there is no godbut Allah' is conveyed into his ears, which implies that he shouldsubmit to none save Allah. Besides, it is arso evident from one ofthe traditions that whenever a child in the prophet's (pbuh)household begins to speak, the prophet (pbuh) thought him thesecond verse of surah al-Furqan which gives the message ofAllah's Sovereignty and the Unity of God (Tawhid). Thetranslation of its verse is as follows:

He to Whom belongsThe dominion of the heavensAnd the earth- no sonHas He begotten, nor Has HeA partner in His dominionIt is He Who createdAll things, and ordered themIn due proportions.

so from the very beginning, Islam emphasizes that children shouldbe ingrained with the Tawhidic message and that they shouldwillingly submit to none but Ailah. It dols not however mean that


Our Lord! Grant us in our spouses and our offspring the comfortof our eyes and make us a model for the needful.

It also implies that Islam completely rejects the perception ofthose who look to women and children as burden or as anoppressed class. In fact, Islam inspires men to look at their wivesand children as the comforters of their eyes, as their source ofjoy,peace and solace and not a suppressed and oppressed class to bedominated and over-powered. Man's domination and suppressionof woman and children go against the very spirit of Islam, whichasserts that 'command is only for Allah', not for man. The timewhen a child is born, the Islamic clarion call that 'there is no godbut Allah' is conveyed into his ears, which implies that he shouldsubmit to none save Allah. Besides, it is also evident from one ofthe traditions that whenever a child in the Prophet's (pbuh)household begins to speak, the Prophet (pbuh) thought him thesecond verse of Surah al-Furqan which gives the message ofAllah's Sovereignty and the Unity of God (Tawhid). ThetranslatioJ:l of its verse is as follows:


So from the very beginning, Islam emphasizes that children shouldbe ingrained with the Tawhidic message and that they shouldwillingly submit to none but Allah. It does not however mean that

9


Our Lord! Grant us in our spouses and our offspring the comfortof our eyes and make us a model for the needful.

It also implies that Islam completely rejects the perception ofthose who look to women and children as burden or as anoppressed class. In fact, Islam inspires men to look at their wivesand children as the comforters of their eyes, as their source ofjoy,peace and solace and not a suppressed and oppressed class to bedominated and over-powered. Man's domination and suppressionof woman and children go against the very spirit of Islam, whichasserts that 'command is only for Allah', not for man. The timewhen a child is born, the Islamic clarion call that 'there is no godbut Allah' is conveyed into his ears, which implies that he shouldsubmit to none save Allah. Besides, it is also evident from one ofthe traditions that whenever a child in the Prophet's (pbuh)household begins to speak, the Prophet (pbuh) thought him thesecond verse of Surah al-Furqan which gives the message ofAllah's Sovereignty and the Unity of God (Tawhid). ThetranslatioJ:l of its verse is as follows:


So from the very beginning, Islam emphasizes that children shouldbe ingrained with the Tawhidic message and that they shouldwillingly submit to none but Allah. It does not however mean that

9

they are not. expected to obey their parents rather Islam enjoinschildren to be good to their parents which shall be discussed later.

Islam also encourages that both parents, mother and father shouldexpress their utmost love to their children, give them time, playwith them and cheer them up through many ways of interactionwith them. It is reported that Hadrat Amir (may Allah be pleasedwith him) who held a high position in the government during thereign of Hadrat Umar (may Allah be pleased with him) oncevisited the house of Hadrat Umar (may Allah be pleased with him)and was surprised to see that few children had mounted the chestof Caliph and were engaged in playing. Seeing the astonishmentof Amir (may Allah be pleased with him) the Caliph enquiredabout his treatment to his children? Upon this, he replied: "Amirul-Mu'minin, as soon as I enter my house the people of myhousehold are struck with terror and stand dumb with fear. Onhearing this, the Caliph said: "Amir (may Allah be pleased withyou) you are a follower of the Holy Prophet (peace and blessingsbe upon him) and yet are ignorant of the important injunction thata Muslim should behave towards his familv members withextreme love and deep tenderness. "

It explicitly reveals that Islam is completely against the despoticand tyrannical attitude of father and male members of the familyover wives and children. Islam expects from man a gentlemanlybehavior not harsh approach towards his family. The prophet(pbuh) said:

The best of you is he who is the best to his family, and I am thebest to my family.

The relationship between man and woman in Islam is not thereforethe relationship of master and servant but that of garments to eachother and also protecting friends of one another. The eur'an says:

They are garments for you and you are garments for them.

l0

they are not expected to obey their parents rather Islam enjoinschildren to be good to their parents which shall be discussed later.

Islam also encourages that both parents, mother and father shouldexpress their utmost love to their children, give them time, playwith them and cheer them up through many ways of interactionwith them. It is reported that Hadrat Amir (may Allah be pleasedwith him) who held a high position in the government during thereign of Hadrat Umar (may Allah be pleased with him) oncevisited the house of Hadrat Umar (may Allah be pleased with him)and was surprised to see that few children had mounted the chestof Caliph and were engaged in playing. Seeing the astonishmentof Amir (may Allah be pleased with him) the Caliph enquiredabout his treatment to his children? Upon this, he replied: "Amirul-Mu'minin, as soon as I enter my house the people of myhousehold are struck with terror and stand dumb with fear. Onhearing this, the Caliph said: "Amir (may Allah be pleased withyou) you are a follower of the Holy Prophet (peace and blessingsbe upon him) and yet are ignorant of the important injunction thata Muslim should behave towards his family members withextreme love and deep tenderness. "

It explicitly reveals that Islam is completely against the despoticand tyrannical attitude of father and male members ofthe familyover wives and children. Islam expects from man a gentlemanlybehavior not harsh approach towards his family. The Prophet(pbuh) said:


The relationship between man and woman in Islam is not thereforethe relationship of master and servant but that of garments to eachother and also protecting friends of one another. The Qur'an says:


10

they are not expected to obey their parents rather Islam enjoinschildren to be good to their parents which shall be discussed later.

Islam also encourages that both parents, mother and father shouldexpress their utmost love to their children, give them time, playwith them and cheer them up through many ways of interactionwith them. It is reported that Hadrat Amir (may Allah be pleasedwith him) who held a high position in the government during thereign of Hadrat Umar (may Allah be pleased with him) oncevisited the house of Hadrat Umar (may Allah be pleased with him)and was surprised to see that few children had mounted the chestof Caliph and were engaged in playing. Seeing the astonishmentof Amir (may Allah be pleased with him) the Caliph enquiredabout his treatment to his children? Upon this, he replied: "Amirul-Mu'minin, as soon as I enter my house the people of myhousehold are struck with terror and stand dumb with fear. Onhearing this, the Caliph said: "Amir (may Allah be pleased withyou) you are a follower of the Holy Prophet (peace and blessingsbe upon him) and yet are ignorant of the important injunction thata Muslim should behave towards his family members withextreme love and deep tenderness. "

It explicitly reveals that Islam is completely against the despoticand tyrannical attitude of father and male members ofthe familyover wives and children. Islam expects from man a gentlemanlybehavior not harsh approach towards his family. The Prophet(pbuh) said:


The relationship between man and woman in Islam is not thereforethe relationship of master and servant but that of garments to eachother and also protecting friends of one another. The Qur'an says:


10

Thus the very basis of family in Islam are faith, love, concern andcare for each other so that it turns out to be a civilizing ground forchildren. Husband and wife who live in peace and love with eachother can concentrate well over their children and can bring themup with moral excellence, best education and spiritual orientation.Such children would not only contribute their potentialitiestowards the construction of society in future, but will remain as ablessing ;br their parents even after the death of their parents.Parents of such children will continue to enjoy the rewards of theirbest education and training, which they imparted to their children.The Prophet (pbuh) said-.

The actions of man cease with his death. But there are three deedswhose reward and blessing continue to reach him even after death.One that he should make a sadaqa jariah (recurring charity);Secondly, he should leave behind a legacy of knowledge fromwhich people may continue to derive benefit; Thirdly, piousoffspring who continuously invoke mercy of Allah upon him.

Children are the blessings which Allah (svw) bestow to parents.But if these children are not educated and trained properly, theybecome nuisance to the parents and the society. Whereas, if thechildren are adequately educated and trained, they shall becomebearers of Islamic mission, transmitters of Islamic culture in thesociety and also best rewards for their deceased parents.

Islam forbids abortion and infanticide. The Qur'an says.

Slay not your children fearing poverty. We shall provide for themand for you. Lo! The slaying of them is great sin.

Those who kill their children out of their foolishness are thegreatest losers.

Thus the very basis of family in Islam are faith, love, concern andcare for each other so that it turns out to be a civilizing ground forchildren. Husband and wife who live in peace and love with eachother can concentrate well over their children and can bring themup with moral excellence, best education and spiritual orientation.Such children would not only contribute their potentialitiestowards the construction of society in future, but will remain as ablessing lur their parents even after the death of their parents.Parents of such children will continue to enjoy the rewards of theirbest education and training, which they imparted to their children.The Prophet (pbuh) said-.


Children are the blessings which Allah (swt) bestow to parents.But if these children are not educated and trained properly, theybecome nuisance to the parents and the society. Whereas, if thechildren are adequately educated and trained, they shall becomebearers of Islamic mission, transmitters of Islamic culture in thesociety and also best rewards for their deceased parents.

Islam forbids abortion and infanticide. The Qur'an says:



11

Thus the very basis of family in Islam are faith, love, concern andcare for each other so that it turns out to be a civilizing ground forchildren. Husband and wife who live in peace and love with eachother can concentrate well over their children and can bring themup with moral excellence, best education and spiritual orientation.Such children would not only contribute their potentialitiestowards the construction of society in future, but will remain as ablessing lur their parents even after the death of their parents.Parents of such children will continue to enjoy the rewards of theirbest education and training, which they imparted to their children.The Prophet (pbuh) said-.


Children are the blessings which Allah (swt) bestow to parents.But if these children are not educated and trained properly, theybecome nuisance to the parents and the society. Whereas, if thechildren are adequately educated and trained, they shall becomebearers of Islamic mission, transmitters of Islamic culture in thesociety and also best rewards for their deceased parents.

Islam forbids abortion and infanticide. The Qur'an says:



11

Thus, abortions, child-abuse and infanticide are all considered asheinous sins in Isiam. Islam by its very nature is against crueltyand barbarity. Any use of contraception loop, shield, plastic oranything to cause abortion is forbidden. Even if abortion is donein seven days, it is unlawful, since the fertilized ovum is going tobe a human being. However, only on one condition abortion isallowed - to save the life of the mother.

It is also important to point out here that Islam is not againsttechnology, but misuse of technology. For instance, iftechnological devices help mothers to lessen some of theircomplications during prenatal period and childbirth Islam has noobjection. But, if the technological devices are discovered andused to let unmarried women or teenage girls to have babies ifthey wish to, Islam strongly objects it. Similarly, if suchcontraceptive devices are invented through which unmarriedwomen or teenage girls can engage in sexual relationships withoutbecoming pregnant, Islam rejects it completely. Likewise, Islamconderr.n high-tech reproductive aids developed to produceartificial mothers, fathers and children, as well as, technologicalway$ and means through which lesbians and homosexuals engagein their deviant sexuality to get children. In fact, Islam is totallyagainst all deviant forms of sexuality. The Qur'an says:

Would you really approach men in your lusts rather than women?Nay, ye are a people (grossly) ignorant.

Islam, no doubt encourages man to beget children, but throughrightful mean not by unlawful act. The Qur'an points out how oneof the Prophets Hadhrat Zakaia (peace be upon him) prayed toAllah (swt) for the pious offspring even in a very old age:

Lord! Bestow upon me by Thy bounty goodly offspring - LolThou art the Hearer of prayer.

12

Thus, abortions, child-abuse and infanticide are all considered asheinous sins in lsiam. Islam by its very nature is against crueltyand barbarity. Any use of contraception loop, shield, plastic oranything to cause abortion is forbidden. Even if abortion is donein seven days, it is unlawful, since the fertilized ovum is going tobe a human being. However, only on one condition abortion isallowed - to save the life of the mother.

It is also important to point out here that Islam is not againsttechnology, but misuse of technology. For instance, iftechnological devices help mothers to lessen some of theircomplications during prenatal period and childbirth, Islam has noobjection. But, if the technological devices are discovered andused to let unmarried women or teenage girls to have babies ifthey wish to, Islam strongly objects it. Similarly, if suchcontraceptive devices are invented through which unmarriedwomen or teenage girls can engage in sexual relationships withoutbecoming pregnant, Islam rejects it completely. Likewise, Islamcondemn high-tech reproductive aids developed to produceartificial mothers, fathers and children, as well as, technologicalways and means through which lesbians and homosexuals engagein their deviant sexuality to get children. In fact, Islam is totallyagainst all deviant forms of sexuality. The Qur'an says:


Islam, no doubt encourages man to beget children, but throughrightful mean not by unlawful act. The Qur1an points out how oneof the Prophets Hadhrat Zakaria (peace be upon him) prayed toAllah (swt) for the pious offspring even in a very old age:

Lord! Bestow upon me by Thy bounty goodly offspring - Lo!Thou art the Hearer of prayer.

12

Thus, abortions, child-abuse and infanticide are all considered asheinous sins in lsiam. Islam by its very nature is against crueltyand barbarity. Any use of contraception loop, shield, plastic oranything to cause abortion is forbidden. Even if abortion is donein seven days, it is unlawful, since the fertilized ovum is going tobe a human being. However, only on one condition abortion isallowed - to save the life of the mother.

It is also important to point out here that Islam is not againsttechnology, but misuse of technology. For instance, iftechnological devices help mothers to lessen some of theircomplications during prenatal period and childbirth, Islam has noobjection. But, if the technological devices are discovered andused to let unmarried women or teenage girls to have babies ifthey wish to, Islam strongly objects it. Similarly, if suchcontraceptive devices are invented through which unmarriedwomen or teenage girls can engage in sexual relationships withoutbecoming pregnant, Islam rejects it completely. Likewise, Islamcondemn high-tech reproductive aids developed to produceartificial mothers, fathers and children, as well as, technologicalways and means through which lesbians and homosexuals engagein their deviant sexuality to get children. In fact, Islam is totallyagainst all deviant forms of sexuality. The Qur'an says:


Islam, no doubt encourages man to beget children, but throughrightful mean not by unlawful act. The Qur1an points out how oneof the Prophets Hadhrat Zakaria (peace be upon him) prayed toAllah (swt) for the pious offspring even in a very old age:

Lord! Bestow upon me by Thy bounty goodly offspring - Lo!Thou art the Hearer of prayer.

12

As far as the 'invitro fertilization' (IVF) and test tube babies areconcerned, Islam allows only if the'ova'comes from the motherand the 'sperm' from the father and the embryo is transferred intothe uterus of one's own wife. Any other usage of the'invitro'fertilization' by any woman or man who are not married with eachother but would like to follow this technology is not acceptable inIslam.

Islamic stance on artificial insemination is also quite clear. Itforbids the use of the sperm of anyone other thin that of thehusband to be used in the process of artificial insemination. suchan act tantamount to adultery, from Islamic perspective, since itfalls outside the martialunion of man and woman.

-

Obligations of Children Towards their parents:

There is a reciprocity of rights and duties in Islam. while parenrsare enjoined to be mindful of their children for their overalldevelopment, children are also exhorted to be obedient and kind totheir parents.

Both parents and children have corresponding duties towards eachother along with their rights. There are several eur'anic versesand Prophetic traditions which tkow abundance irtigtt on theetiquette of children towards their parents. The eur'an saiys:

Thy Lord hath decreed that ye worship none save Him and (that yeshow) kindness to parents.Islam thus ordained children to be kind and grateful to his parents.Good conduct towards parents is even regarded as a key toparadise. The Prophet (pbuh) said:

Your entry into Paradise or Hell depends on your good or badconduct towards your parents.

As far as the 'invitro fertilization' (IYF) and test tube babies areconcerned, Islam allows only if the 'ova' comes from the motherand the 'sperm' from the father and the embryo is transferred intothe uterus of one's own wife. Any other usage of the 'invitro'fertilization' by any woman or man who are not married with eachother but would like to follow this technology is not acceptable inIslam.

Islamic stance on artificial insemination is also quite clear. Itforbids the use of the sperm of anyone other than that of thehusband to be used in the process of artificial insemination. Suchan act tantamount to adultery, from Islamic perspective, since itfalls outside the martial union of man and woman.

Obligations of Children Towards their Parents:

There is a reciprocity of rights and duties in Islam. While parentsare enjoined to be mindful of their children for their overalldevelopment, children are also exhorted to be obedient and kind totheir parents.

Both parents and children have corresponding duties towards eachother along with their rights. There are several Qur'anic versesand Prophetic traditions which throw abundance of light on theetiquette of children towards their parents. The Qur'an says:



13

As far as the 'invitro fertilization' (IYF) and test tube babies areconcerned, Islam allows only if the 'ova' comes from the motherand the 'sperm' from the father and the embryo is transferred intothe uterus of one's own wife. Any other usage of the 'invitro'fertilization' by any woman or man who are not married with eachother but would like to follow this technology is not acceptable inIslam.

Islamic stance on artificial insemination is also quite clear. Itforbids the use of the sperm of anyone other than that of thehusband to be used in the process of artificial insemination. Suchan act tantamount to adultery, from Islamic perspective, since itfalls outside the martial union of man and woman.

Obligations of Children Towards their Parents:

There is a reciprocity of rights and duties in Islam. While parentsare enjoined to be mindful of their children for their overalldevelopment, children are also exhorted to be obedient and kind totheir parents.

Both parents and children have corresponding duties towards eachother along with their rights. There are several Qur'anic versesand Prophetic traditions which throw abundance of light on theetiquette of children towards their parents. The Qur'an says:



13

Another tradition of the Prophet (pbuh) also highlights thenecessity of fair treatment to parents by children:

Let that man be disgraced, and disgraced again and let him bedisgraced even more. The people Enquired: "O Prophet of God(pbuh) who is that man? The Prophet affrrmed: "I refer to the manwho finds his parents old in age - both of them or one of them -and yet did not earn entitlement to Paradise by rendering goodservice to them.

It seems also pertinent to point out here that although children areexhorted to be obedient and kind to both parents, a greateremphasis is given for more better treatment and devotion tomother. This is obviously because of her greater sacrifices andsufferings for children. The Qur'an says:

And We have commanded unto man kindness towards parents Hismother beareth him with suffering bringing forth with suffering,bearing him and weaning of him in thirty months.

This is also illustrated through vruious Prophetic traditions:

I enjoin man about his mother.I enjoin man about his mother.I enjoin man about his mother.I enjoin man about his father.

Thus motherhood in Islam is not discarded as a burden, astumbling block for woman's development, a source of oppressionand suppression. It is looked upon with respect and honor and isconsidered as a blessing from Allah (swt) to man. Motherlyaffection and care deems indispensable for the proper upbringingof children along with father's affection and concern. Motherhoodis regarded as an essential institution for human civilization.


Let that man be disgraced, and disgraced again and let him bedisgraced even more. The people Enquired: "0 Prophet of God(pbuh) who is that man? The Prophet affirmed: "l refer to the manwho finds his parents old in age - both of them or one of them and yet did not earn entitlement to Paradise by rendering goodservice to them.



This is also illustrated through various Prophetic traditions:


Thus motherhood in Islam is not discarded as a burden, astumbling block for woman's development, a source of oppressionand suppression. It is looked upon with respect and honor al)d isconsidered as a blessing from Allah (swt) to man. Motherlyaffection and care deems indispensable for the proper upbringingof children along with father's affection and concern. Motherhoodis regarded as an essential institution for human civilization.

14


Let that man be disgraced, and disgraced again and let him bedisgraced even more. The people Enquired: "0 Prophet of God(pbuh) who is that man? The Prophet affirmed: "l refer to the manwho finds his parents old in age - both of them or one of them and yet did not earn entitlement to Paradise by rendering goodservice to them.



This is also illustrated through various Prophetic traditions:


Thus motherhood in Islam is not discarded as a burden, astumbling block for woman's development, a source of oppressionand suppression. It is looked upon with respect and honor al)d isconsidered as a blessing from Allah (swt) to man. Motherlyaffection and care deems indispensable for the proper upbringingof children along with father's affection and concern. Motherhoodis regarded as an essential institution for human civilization.

14

As discussed above, Islam attaches great importance to the mutualIove and concern for each other in the family. As father is askedto pray to Allah (swt) to bring in his wife and children comfort forhis eyes, children are exhorted to show glances of love anddevotion to parents. The Prophet (pbuh) said:

"The pious offspring who castes a single look of affection at hisparents receives a reward from God equal to the reward of anaccepted Hajj." The people submitted: "O Prophet of Allah (peacebe upon you), if someone casts a hundred such glances of love andaffection at his parents, what then?" The Prophet replied: "yes,indeed, even if one does so a hundred time a day, he will get ahundred fold reward. God is far greater than you imagine and iscompletely free from petty narrow mindedness.

Children are also exhorted to pray for their parents;

O, our Lord! Grant forgiveness to my parents and me and pardonall the faithful on the Day of Reckoning.

Few Observations on the Above Discussion:

I sexuality, reproduction and parents and children relationship inthe family are all perceived in Islam as natural and essentialaspects of man's life and are not separated from the wholeTawhidic framework of life and thought. Man is always remindedto be mindful of Allah's guidance all through these relationshipswhether sexual or parental.

2 sexuality and reproduction outside marriage are rejecteddownright and considered unlawful, no matter all technologicaldevices make them possible outside marriage.

I A loving, devoted, peaceful and harmonious relationshipbetween husband and wife is greatly emphasized. Man,sdomination and woman's subservience to man are completely

l 5

As discussed above, Islam attaches great importance to the mutuallove and concern for each other in the family. As father is askedto pray to Allah (swt) to bring in his wife and children comfort forhis eyes, children are exhorted to show glances of love anddevotion to parents. The Prophet (pbuh) said:

liThe pious offspring who castes a single look of affection at hisparents receives a reward from God equal to the reward of anaccepted Hajj.1I The people submitted: 110 Prophet of Allah (peacebe upon you), if someone casts a hundred such glances of love andaffection at his parents, what then?1I The Prophet replied: IIYes,indeed, even if one does so a hundred time a day, he will get ahundred fold reward. God is far greater than you imagine and iscompletely free from petty narrow mindedness.

Children are also exhorted to pray for their parents:

0, our Lord! Grant forgiveness to my parents and me and pardonall the faithful on the Day ofReckoning.


1. Sexuality, reproduction and parents and children relationship inthe family are all perceived in Islam as natural and essentialaspects of man's life and are not separated from the wholeTawhidic framework of life and thought. Man is always remindedto be mindful of Allah's guidance all through these relationshipswhether sexual or parental.

2. Sexuality and reproduction outside marriage are rejecteddownright and considered unlawful, no matter all technologicaldevices make them possible outside marriage.

3. A loving, devoted, peaceful and harmonious relationshipbetween husband and wife is greatly emphasized. Man'sdomination and woman's subservience to man are completely

15

As discussed above, Islam attaches great importance to the mutuallove and concern for each other in the family. As father is askedto pray to Allah (swt) to bring in his wife and children comfort forhis eyes, children are exhorted to show glances of love anddevotion to parents. The Prophet (pbuh) said:

liThe pious offspring who castes a single look of affection at hisparents receives a reward from God equal to the reward of anaccepted Hajj.1I The people submitted: 110 Prophet of Allah (peacebe upon you), if someone casts a hundred such glances of love andaffection at his parents, what then?1I The Prophet replied: IIYes,indeed, even if one does so a hundred time a day, he will get ahundred fold reward. God is far greater than you imagine and iscompletely free from petty narrow mindedness.

Children are also exhorted to pray for their parents:

0, our Lord! Grant forgiveness to my parents and me and pardonall the faithful on the Day ofReckoning.


1. Sexuality, reproduction and parents and children relationship inthe family are all perceived in Islam as natural and essentialaspects of man's life and are not separated from the wholeTawhidic framework of life and thought. Man is always remindedto be mindful of Allah's guidance all through these relationshipswhether sexual or parental.

2. Sexuality and reproduction outside marriage are rejecteddownright and considered unlawful, no matter all technologicaldevices make them possible outside marriage.

3. A loving, devoted, peaceful and harmonious relationshipbetween husband and wife is greatly emphasized. Man'sdomination and woman's subservience to man are completely

15

rejected. Men and women complement each other and not

compete against each other. Islamic family system is neitherpatriarchal nor matriarchal, rather consultational, shura-based.

4. An affectionate, cordial, intimate and a deeper relationshipbetween parents and children is strongly upheld in Islam. A stablefamily of caring parents and devoted children is expected for abetter society and a healthier civilization.

Conclusion:

We cannot afficrd to be complacent and take comfort in the Islamic

theories of senrality, reproductioq husband and wife relationship

and parents and childrtn relationship which are based on the

Qu/anic injunctions and Prophetic traditions unless we see these

theories are put into Practice.

For instance, it is generally found out that the relationship patterns

between husband and wife and between pafents and children even

in some Muslim societies are also not satisfactory. Broadly there

are three problems:

L Men tend to keep a despotic attitude towards women and

children. There is a big communication gap between the male

members and females and children. Men expect from women only

familial service of cooking, cleaning and children care. Exchange

of thoughts and ideas on any problem of the outside world, of

Muslim Ummah, of intellectual or of any other field is almost

absent. Instead of a loving and caring environment, a fearful andtensed environment prevails in the house because men usuallymaintain distance from women and children as a mark of their

artificial honor. This sort of honor sometimes even turns to be

horrific among other family members and distorts all sorts ofrelationships. Although it goes against Islamic injunctions asdescribed above, sometimes even a religious halo is attached to it

l 6

rejected. Men and women complement each other and notcompete against each other. Islamic family system is neitherpatriarchal nor matriarchal, rather consultational, shura-based.


Conclusion:

We cannot afford to be complacent and take comfort in the Islamictheories of sexuality, reproduction, husband and wife relationshipand parents and children relationship which are based on theQur'anic injunctions and Prophetic traditions unless we see thesetheories are put into practice.

For instance, it is generally found out that the relationship patternsbetween husband and wife and between parents and children evenin some Muslim societies are also not satisfactory. Broadly thereare three problems:

1. Men tend to keep a despotic attitude towards women andchildren. There is a big communication gap between the malemembers and females and children. Men expect from women onlyfamilial service ofcooking, cleaning and children care. Exchangeof thoughts and ideas on any problem of the outside world, ofMuslim Ummah, of intellectual or of any other field is almostabsent. Instead of a loving and caring environment, a fearful andtensed environment prevails in the house because men usuallymaintain distance from women and children as a mark of theirartificial honor. This sort of honor sometimes even turns to behorrific among other family members and distorts all sorts ofrelationships. Although it goes against Islamic injunctions asdescribed above, sometimes even a religious halo is attached to it

16

rejected. Men and women complement each other and notcompete against each other. Islamic family system is neitherpatriarchal nor matriarchal, rather consultational, shura-based.


Conclusion:

We cannot afford to be complacent and take comfort in the Islamictheories of sexuality, reproduction, husband and wife relationshipand parents and children relationship which are based on theQur'anic injunctions and Prophetic traditions unless we see thesetheories are put into practice.

For instance, it is generally found out that the relationship patternsbetween husband and wife and between parents and children evenin some Muslim societies are also not satisfactory. Broadly thereare three problems:

1. Men tend to keep a despotic attitude towards women andchildren. There is a big communication gap between the malemembers and females and children. Men expect from women onlyfamilial service ofcooking, cleaning and children care. Exchangeof thoughts and ideas on any problem of the outside world, ofMuslim Ummah, of intellectual or of any other field is almostabsent. Instead of a loving and caring environment, a fearful andtensed environment prevails in the house because men usuallymaintain distance from women and children as a mark of theirartificial honor. This sort of honor sometimes even turns to behorrific among other family members and distorts all sorts ofrelationships. Although it goes against Islamic injunctions asdescribed above, sometimes even a religious halo is attached to it

16

for which reason women and children could hardly expressthemselves and become victims of horror.

z- ln some cases, women are alone expected to take over all theresponsibilities of children and men completely exempt from it.For the better educational upbringing of chi-ldren, bottr mother andfather require to play their important roles. In those familieswhere women are hardly educated, it becomes all the moreproblematic for children to get proper educational feedback.whereas in some cases, where both parents are educated andworking, again children become the victims since they do not getproper attention from their parents. Men claim that ihey are toobusy and women blame men for non-co-operation in house-choresand claim that they are over-burdened with double workload andtend to neglect children. children feel that they are alienated fromboth parents.

3. Due to lack of mutual understanding and confidence on eachotheq the relationships between husband and wife grows tensedand sometimes gives rise to divorce. children of divorced parentsturn out to be aggressive and anti-social.

for which reason women and children could hardly expressthemselves and become victims ofhorror.

2. In some cases, women are alone expected to take over all theresponsibilities of children and men completely exempt from it.For the better educational upbringing ofchildren, both mother andfather require to play their important roles. In those familieswhere women are hardly educated, it becomes all the moreproblematic for children to get proper educational feedback.Whereas in some cases, where both parents are educated andworking, again children become the victims since they do not getproper attention from their parents. Men claim that they are toobusy and women blame men for non-eo-operation in house-choresand claim that they are over-burdened with double workload andtend to neglect children. Children feel that they are alienated fromboth parents.

3. Due to lack of mutual understanding and confidence on eachother, the relationships between husband and wife grows tensedand sometimes gives rise to divorce. Children ofdivorced parentstum out to be aggressive and anti-social.

17

for which reason women and children could hardly expressthemselves and become victims ofhorror.

2. In some cases, women are alone expected to take over all theresponsibilities of children and men completely exempt from it.For the better educational upbringing ofchildren, both mother andfather require to play their important roles. In those familieswhere women are hardly educated, it becomes all the moreproblematic for children to get proper educational feedback.Whereas in some cases, where both parents are educated andworking, again children become the victims since they do not getproper attention from their parents. Men claim that they are toobusy and women blame men for non-eo-operation in house-choresand claim that they are over-burdened with double workload andtend to neglect children. Children feel that they are alienated fromboth parents.

3. Due to lack of mutual understanding and confidence on eachother, the relationships between husband and wife grows tensedand sometimes gives rise to divorce. Children ofdivorced parentstum out to be aggressive and anti-social.

17

References:

l. For a comprehensive and convincing study- o_n Islam as the

complete wai of life, see various books of Syed Abul Ala

Mawdudi ruih as - Islamic Way of Life, Lahore Islamicpublications, 1992; see also Let us be Muslims, Kuala Lumpur,

The Islamic Foundation, A.S' Noordeen' l99l' For a

contemporary perspective on Islarq see Mohammad Ahmedullah

siddiqi' (ed),'Islam-. A Contemporary Perspective, chicago,

NAAMPS Publication, 1994.

2,. see Ismaiel Raji al-Faruqi, Tawhid: Its Implications for

if,ougf,r and Life, Herndon" IiIT, 1982; Mohammad Nejatullah

Siddi[ui, Tawhid- The Concept and the Process, in Khurshid

Ahmed andZafar Ishaq Ansar ed., Islamic Perspectives Studies in

Honor of sayyed Abul Ala Mawdudi, Leicester' Islamic

Foundation, 1979, PP. l 7-33.

3. Al-Qur'an 2:30; For a concrete understanding of the universal

mission:ary role oi a Muslim, see Sayyed A!u! Ala Mawdudi'

Witness unto Mankind, Leicester, Islamic Foundation' 1995 '

4. Al-Qur'an 30:21

5. Al-Qur'an l3:38.

6. Al-Qur'an4-.21.

7. Al-Qut'an l7-.3?3-l see also Mohammed Abdur Rauf, Islamic

View of Woman and the Family, Chicago' Kazi

Publications, 1996.

L Sahih at-Muslinr, chapter, The Book of Marriage' Ha

IE

References:

1. For a comprehensive and convincing study on Islam as the

complete way of life, see various books of Syed Abul Ala

Mawdudi such as - Islamic Way of Life, Lahore Islamic

Publications, 1992; see also Let uS be Muslims, Kuala Lumpur,

The Islamic Foundation, A.S. Noordeen, 1991. For a

contemporary perspective on Islam, see Mohammad Ahmedullah

Siddiqi (ed.), Islam-. A Contemporary Perspective, Chicago,

NAA1\.1PS Publication, 1994.

2. See Ismaiel Raji al-Faruqi, Tawhid: Its Implications for

Thought and Life, Herndon, lIIT, 1982; Mohammad Nejatullah

Siddiqui, Tawhid- The Concept and the Process, in Khurshid

Ahmed and Zafar Ishaq Ansar ed., Islamic Perspectives Studies in

Honor of Sayyed Abul Ala Mawdudi, Leicester, Islamic

Foundation, 1979, pp. 17-33.

3. Al-Qur'an 2:30~ For a concrete understanding ofthe universal

missionary role of a Muslim, see Sayyed Abul Ala Mawdudi,

Witness unto Mankind, Leicester, Islamic Foundation, 1995 .

4. Al-Qur'an 30:21

5. Al-Qur'an 13:38.

6. Al-Qur'an 4-.21.

7. Al-Quran 17-.323-1 see also Mohammed Abdur Rauf, Islamic

View of Woman and the Family, Chicago, Kazi

Publications, 1996.

8. Sahih ai-Muslim, chapter, The Book ofMarriage, Ha

18

References:

1. For a comprehensive and convincing study on Islam as the

complete way of life, see various books of Syed Abul Ala

Mawdudi such as - Islamic Way of Life, Lahore Islamic

Publications, 1992; see also Let uS be Muslims, Kuala Lumpur,

The Islamic Foundation, A.S. Noordeen, 1991. For a

contemporary perspective on Islam, see Mohammad Ahmedullah

Siddiqi (ed.), Islam-. A Contemporary Perspective, Chicago,

NAA1\.1PS Publication, 1994.

2. See Ismaiel Raji al-Faruqi, Tawhid: Its Implications for

Thought and Life, Herndon, lIIT, 1982; Mohammad Nejatullah

Siddiqui, Tawhid- The Concept and the Process, in Khurshid

Ahmed and Zafar Ishaq Ansar ed., Islamic Perspectives Studies in

Honor of Sayyed Abul Ala Mawdudi, Leicester, Islamic

Foundation, 1979, pp. 17-33.

3. Al-Qur'an 2:30~ For a concrete understanding ofthe universal

missionary role of a Muslim, see Sayyed Abul Ala Mawdudi,

Witness unto Mankind, Leicester, Islamic Foundation, 1995 .

4. Al-Qur'an 30:21

5. Al-Qur'an 13:38.

6. Al-Qur'an 4-.21.

7. Al-Quran 17-.323-1 see also Mohammed Abdur Rauf, Islamic

View of Woman and the Family, Chicago, Kazi

Publications, 1996.

8. Sahih ai-Muslim, chapter, The Book ofMarriage, Ha

18

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Family system in islam